New Skoda Kushaq Drive Impressions: 1 vs 1.5TSI?
- Mar 20, 2026
- Views : 5004

Skoda’s new Kushaq has made its debut in India, and among the various changes to the styling, interior and feature list, there is also a brand-new automatic gearbox to be had with the 1-litre engine. If you wanted to know more about the powertrains in detail, here is a closer look at them, along with the variants they are offered in:
The new Kushaq carries on with its 1-litre and 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engines, as we have seen in the pre-facelift version. However, a key change has come in the form of a new 8-speed automatic gearbox that has replaced the 6-speed unit for the smaller powerplant. You do still get the option of a 6-speed manual as well if you like a more connected feel.

On the other hand, the 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine is available with a dual-clutch automatic gearbox only, which offers lightning-quick shifts and 7 gears to row through. Here are the detailed specifications of these powertrains:
|
Engine |
1-litre turbo-petrol |
1.5-litre turbo-petrol |
|
Transmission |
6-speed manual/8-speed automatic (NEW) |
7-speed DSG |
|
Power (PS) |
115 PS |
150 PS |
|
Torque (Nm) |
178 Nm |
250 Nm |
Skoda is offering the Kushaq in a choice of 5 variants called Classic Plus, Signature, Sportline, Prestige and Monte Carlo. Here is a list of the powertrain combinations available:
|
Variant |
1-litre turbo-petrol TSI |
1.5-litre turbo-petrol TSI |
|
|
MT |
AT |
DCT |
|
|
Classic Plus |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
|
Signature |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
|
Sportline |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
|
Prestige |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Monte Carlo |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
The base Classic Plus variant of the Kushaq is offered only with the 1-litre motor, which is offered with both manual and automatic gearbox options, furthering its appeal amongst buyers seeking affordability and convenience alike.

Just like the base variant, the Signature trim is also offered with manual and automatic gearbox options with a 1-litre turbo-petrol engine. This is a good variant to go for to get some more fancy tech, without having to spend too much.
Based on the Signature trim in terms of the equipment offered, the Sportline is also available with manual and automatic gearbox options with the 1-litre turbo-petrol engine. However, it does get a lot of sportier touches and an all-black interior for a more athletic look and feel.
Available with all top-spec equipment like a panoramic sunroof and rear massaging seats, the Prestige is available with both the 1-litre and 1.5-litre engine options and all gearbox options as well, enhancing its flexibility within the lineup.
If you’re an enthusiast, the Monte Carlo is the variant to have as it gets all the equipment available, along with sporty touches and exclusive features like all-wheel disc brakes. However, it can only be had in the automatic guise in both the 1-litre and 1.5-litre engine options.

Skoda has distributed the variant-wise powertrain options quite well with the current buyer needs and wants in mind. Unlike many rivals, it offers a proper automatic transmission right from the base variant itself, while top-spec Prestige buyers get the most flexibility. Furthermore, having Sportline and Monte Carlo variants also adds to the appeal for enthusiasts. That said, we wish the carmaker also offered the more powerful 1.5-litre engine in lower variants for a more accessible performance-oriented option.

Which variant-powertrain combination of the Kushaq would you pick? Let us know in the comments below!
Note: Images of top-spec Monte Carlo and Prestige variants used for representation
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